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By Abdulaziz Ali - Medically reviewed by Dt. Musa Kaya, on Sep 15, 2024

Some patients may require root canal treatment before having a dental filling. 

How many trips do I need to take abroad to complete the procedure? 

You will need 1 trip abroad to complete the whole procedure and follow up with your local doctor. 

Dental X-rays are usually required before placing a dental filling. The x-rays are done in order to ensure that the tooth is not cracked and that the roots are healthy. 

The area is first numbed with local anesthesia before the dentist will begin removing all decayed parts of the tooth. The next step depends on the material used but usually once the filling is placed, minor touches are also done in order to ensure a proper fit and good functionality. The dentist will then polish the tooth, making it less visible. 

Patients will be required to avoid any food and drink for 4 to 6 hours after the filling has been placed. An increase in tooth sensitivity after a filling has been placed is common – it will pass in a few weeks. 

Dental fillings risks and complications can include: 

  • Allergic reaction to amalgam fillings 
  • Tooth filling pain after the procedure for up to several weeks 
  • Fillings falling out 
  • Secondary caries 
  • Restoration fracture
  • Tooth filling procedure side effects can include: 
  • Discomfort 
  • Increase in sensitivity 
  • Pain 

The average dental filling success rate is close to 98%, with most fillings lasting between 5 and 15 years or more. 

Patients need to maintain oral hygiene practices in order to maintain their fillings and their teeth healthy. Regular checkups with the dentist are also indicated in order to ensure that the fillings have not cracked and are not “leaking”. 

An amalgam tooth filling contains mercury. Is it safe? 

Amalgam material is a combination of mercury, silver, copper, and tin. The other metals make mercury harmless. It is safe to use for a tooth filling and has been in use for more than 100 years. 

What if my tooth is too decayed for a tooth filling? 

If the patient’s tooth is too decayed and a toot filling cannot be applied, a dental implant and crown may be used instead. 

How long does a tooth filling take? 

The procedure usually lasts under an hour.

Is a tooth filling permanent? 

Dental fillings are not permanent, but most do survive for more than 10 years if properly cared for.